Rhino Horn Cup 'More Expensive Than Gold'

Chiswick Auctions sells item to Chinese dealer for five-figure sum

A house clearance sale in London has yielded a local auction house one of its best sales.

Chiswick Auctions achieved a house record on last week (Sept 10) when a rhinoceros horn libation cup was sold to a Chinese dealer for £64,000 (plus buyer’s premium).

The previous record was £46,000 in July 2006. The 18th or possibly 17th century vessel was discovered by auction house manager Matthew Caddick in a modest home in Hyde Park in London during a house clearance.

In comparison to 18 carat gold it is 11 times more expensive per gram, weighing 352 grams, the comparable 18ct gold price would be around £7,000.

A spokesman said the item was " in great condition"

Carved rhino horn cups were probably produced for ceremonial purposes as suggested by the magical healing powers of the horn in Chinese culture.

There has been continuing demand for rhinoceros horn pieces in recent specialist Asian sales.

September 13, 2013